Households replacing both appliances
You can choose the washing machine, tumble dryer and stacking kit together. Check that the model numbers are compatible before ordering the pair, rather than trying to find a kit afterwards.
Who is a stacked setup for?
Households keeping one appliance
The full model number and dimensions of the appliance you already have will determine your choice of a second one. The manuals and any kit-specific restrictions matter more than similar widths or matching brands.
People with a small bathroom or narrow alcove
Freeing up floor space isn’t enough: you also need to be able to open the doors, reach the controls and keep the necessary access for connections, ventilation and maintenance.
What should you check before buying?
First, check that both front-loading appliances are approved for stacking and find a kit that suits their model numbers. Then measure the whole space and choose the tumble dryer’s capacity and type to suit the room and your laundry.
| Factor | What to check before buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility and stability | Check the model numbers, dimensions, weight limits and approved kit in the manuals. The tumble dryer must sit on top of the washing machine. | If I’m keeping one appliance, I want to avoid buying a second model that I can’t safely stack with it. Around 42% of consumers would prioritise compatibility. |
| Space and access | Measure the height with the kit in place and check the floor, door clearance, access to the controls and any required clearances. | In a narrow alcove, saving space is only useful to me if I can still use and maintain both appliances. This would be the priority for around 33% of consumers. |
| Capacity and drying | Choose a tumble dryer capacity to suit your washing loads and check whether the room can accommodate the external vent required by some models. | To dry the laundry from my washing machine regularly, I’d choose a suitable capacity and a technology that works in the room. Around 25% of consumers would put this first. |
Mistakes to avoid
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Choosing the appliances before checking the kit
Kits may only be suitable for certain appliance depths or ranges. So two models from the same brand won’t necessarily make a stackable pair.
Make a note of both full model numbers and check they’re compatible with the kit in the manuals or with the manufacturer before ordering.
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Taking ‘universal’ at face value
Whirlpool describes its SKS101 kit as suitable for standard 60 × 60 cm appliances, but also recommends confirming that appliances from different brands can be stacked.
Compare the dimensions and instructions for both appliances with the kit requirements. If you’re still unsure whether stacking is approved, ask the manufacturers to confirm before buying.
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Measuring only the available width
A stack may fit on the floor but still be difficult to use if the top controls, doors or connections are inaccessible.
Measure the height with the kit in place and allow for the clearances specified in the manuals, as well as access for maintenance.
Work on the lower washing machine may require the tumble dryer to be removed.
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Placing the washing machine on a soft or uneven floor
The washing machine forms the base of the stack. Que Choisir recommends a flat, firm and solid floor to keep it stable.
Check that all four feet are firmly supported and level the washing machine before fitting the kit and placing the tumble dryer on top.
Brands to consider for stacking kits
Bosch
Bosch offers stacking kits for its appliances, including versions with a pull-out shelf.
- The manufacturer says the WTZ2741X is designed for washing machines with a depth of more than 55 cm.
- This condition alone doesn’t confirm compatibility between two specific models, so check any model-series restrictions too.
Electrolux
Electrolux offers the E1WYHSK2 kit, which comes with a pull-out shelf.
- Electrolux says this kit is suitable for its front-loading washing machines and tumble dryers with a depth of 52 to 67 cm.
- This guidance applies to the E1WYHSK2 kit and the specified Electrolux appliances, not to a pair from another brand.
Whirlpool / Wpro
Whirlpool describes the SKS101 as a strap-based stacking kit for appliances of standard dimensions.
- Whirlpool says the SKS101 is designed for standard 60 × 60 cm appliances.
- For appliances from two different brands, Whirlpool recommends confirming that they can be stacked. The appliance manuals remain the deciding factor.
Miele
Miele stacking kits are designed for specific appliance ranges.
- Miele lists the WTV 501 for Chrome Edition T1 and T1 Classic tumble dryers.
- Check the range and the requirements for the washing machine too: the tumble dryer’s model number alone doesn’t confirm that the pair is compatible.
LG
LG offers kits with pull-out shelves and provides product-specific compatibility information.
- LG says its DK2W kit is suitable for certain LG washing machines and tumble dryers.
- Compatibility doesn’t automatically extend to every LG model, so check both model numbers.
Joybuy products
Products related to this topic will be available soon.
Frequently asked questions
Can you put the washing machine on top of the tumble dryer?
No. In a stacked setup, the washing machine stays on the floor and the tumble dryer goes on top. Check that the manuals for both appliances and the kit allow them to be stacked.
Can two appliances from the same brand always be stacked?
No. Compatibility depends on the model numbers, dimensions and kit restrictions. Some Bosch and Miele accessories, for example, are designed for specific appliance ranges.
Will a universal kit work with appliances from two different brands?
Only if the dimensions, kit requirements and manuals for both appliances allow it. Whirlpool describes its SKS101 as suitable for standard 60 × 60 cm appliances, but still recommends confirming that appliances from different brands can be stacked.
What ventilation do you need around the stack?
Follow the clearance and ventilation instructions in the manuals for the models you choose. According to Que Choisir, a vented tumble dryer needs an opening to the outside or access to a duct, unlike a condenser model, which doesn’t need an external vent connection.